21-Day Winter School (Training) Begins Soil Scientists to Discuss Advanced Techniques

Udaipur, A 21-day Winter School (Training) on the latest techniques in soil resource mapping and management commenced on Wednesday at Udaipur and Nagpur centers. Organized by the National Bureau of Soil Survey and Land Use Planning (NBSS&LUP), under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), this training program has brought together more than 50 soil scientists from across the country.

Progress in Agriculture Possible Only Through Advanced Technology – Dr. Karnataka

The inaugural ceremony at the Udaipur Regional Center was graced by Dr. Ajeet Kumar Karnataka, Vice-Chancellor of Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology as the chief guest. Meanwhile, at the Nagpur Center, the event was presided over by Mr. Parimal Singh, Project Director, Nanaji Deshmukh Krishi Sanjivani Prakalp (POCRA), Maharashtra, with the session being connected online.

Dr. Karnataka emphasized that even after 78 years of independence, farmers continue to rely on traditional farming methods, highlighting the need to adopt modern technologies. He pointed out that Artificial Intelligence (AI), Remote Sensing, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and Digital Soil Mapping (DSM) are revolutionizing soil analysis, soil process modeling, and sustainable land management strategies.

He asserted that bridging the gap between manual methods and modern technologies is a challenge, but India’s young scientists are capable of integrating both approaches, ensuring growth in the agriculture sector.

Experts Share Insights on Soil Science

Dr. J.P. Sharma, former Principal Scientist and Head, Regional Center, New Delhi, stated that the training will provide practical knowledge on soil surveying, geomorphic identification, and geospatial tools.

Professor Shekhar Muddu from the Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, highlighted that participants would acquire valuable skills in soil resource mapping and management, enhancing their ability to contribute effectively to soil-based development programs and sustainable land management.

Dr. N.G. Patil, Director of the Nagpur Center, described soil as an indispensable natural resource that forms the foundation of terrestrial ecosystems, playing a critical role in agriculture, forestry, and environmental sustainability.

The event began with a welcome address by Dr. B.L. Meena, Principal Scientist at the Udaipur Regional Center, while Dr. Brijesh Yadav, Scientist, delivered the vote of thanks.

Key Focus Areas of the Training

Understanding soil-landform relationships and their impact on soil formation

Exploring modern soil survey techniques and land resource inventory methods

Enhancing knowledge of Remote Sensing (RS), GIS, and Digital Soil Mapping (DSM)

Practical training on Google Earth Engine and geostatistics

Application of geospatial technologies in soil and water conservation, land-use planning, and sustainable management

Understanding factors and processes of soil formation

Field visits, soil profile studies, and analysis of soil properties

Utilizing satellite data for soil resource management

Interpretation of soil survey data

Learning soil survey techniques for land resource inventories

This training aims to equip soil scientists from various states with advanced techniques, enabling them to contribute effectively to policy-making for farmers' benefit.